Day 1: Castles, Culture & Cobblestones
My adventure began at Casa Loma, Toronto’s very own fairy-tale castle perched atop a hill. With its sweeping staircases, secret passages, and lush gardens, Casa Loma feels like a step back in time. Don’t miss the tower climb for a panoramic view of the city skyline.
From there, I made my way to the Distillery District, a pedestrian-only village of Victorian-era buildings now filled with art galleries, design shops, and cozy cafes. The cobblestone streets are perfect for a slow stroll, and every corner feels like a photo op.
For lunch, I headed to St. Lawrence Market, where the variety of food is overwhelming in the best way. I opted for a classic peameal bacon sandwich (a Toronto staple!) and picked up some locally-made cheese and maple treats to take home.
I capped off the day with a 3-hour downtown walk, weaving through Toronto’s core from the Financial District to Queen West, passing public art, historic architecture, and plenty of street performers. It’s a great way to feel the pulse of the city.
Day 2: Nature’s Grandeur, Just a Drive Away
The next day, I took a day trip to Niagara Falls, about 90 minutes from downtown Toronto. Yes, it’s touristy—but it’s also jaw-droppingly powerful. I did the classic boat ride (prepare to get drenched!) and walked the promenade for some fantastic views. The mist in the air, the thundering sound, the endless rainbow—it’s pure magic.
Day 3: Museums, Cliffs & Curiosities
Back in Toronto, I started the day at the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM). With everything from dinosaur fossils to ancient Egyptian artifacts, it’s easy to get lost for hours here. The building itself—where old meets ultra-modern—is a masterpiece.
Next stop: shopping with a twist. I popped into a Winners Off-Price Store and Value Village Thrift Shop—a fun way to discover fashion finds and quirky vintage gems on a budget. Just down the road, the Geologic Rock Shop caught my eye. It’s a hidden gem for geology lovers and curious travelers alike, with an incredible variety of crystals, fossils, and minerals.
Later in the afternoon, I escaped to Scarborough Bluffs Park, where white cliffs tower over Lake Ontario. It’s peaceful, scenic, and feels like a slice of the coast tucked inside the city.
Day 4: Wilderness, Waterfront & a Flavorful Farewell
I began the day with a visit to Tommy Thompson Park, also known as the Leslie Street Spit. A man-made peninsula turned wild sanctuary, it’s a prime spot for birdwatching and enjoying nature just steps from the city.
Dinner that night was a highlight: Joe Bird on the waterfront. With panoramic views of Lake Ontario and a breezy outdoor patio, it’s one of the best places to unwind. I ordered their famous chicken fingers (yes, that good), paired with two standout drinks—the Bird Punch and the Toronto Island Iced Tea. It was the perfect farewell meal: casual, delicious, and infused with that lakeside magic.
Final Thoughts
Toronto is a city of contrasts—historic yet modern, urban yet deeply connected to nature, stylish yet refreshingly unpretentious. Whether you’re exploring castles, sipping cocktails by the lake, thrifting for treasures, or chasing waterfalls, this city has something for every kind of traveler.
Pro Tip: Wear comfy shoes and leave space in your bag—you’ll definitely find something to bring home, whether it’s a cool rock, a vintage jacket, or a memory you didn’t expect to make.